Double wide mobile homes require proper skirting to enhance their appearance, improve energy efficiency, and protect the underside from pests and weather. Skirting materials for double wide homes come in various options, including vinyl, metal, concrete, and faux stone. Each material offers unique benefits in terms of durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness.
The average cost to install skirting on a double-wide mobile home ranges from $1,100 to $1,550 for vinyl, which is the most common and affordable option. Other materials like faux stone can cost between $800 to $1,400 for a double-wide home. The installation process involves measuring the perimeter, preparing the ground, and securely attaching the skirting panels.
Choosing the right skirting material and ensuring proper installation are crucial for maximizing the benefits of mobile home skirting. Factors to consider include local climate, budget constraints, and desired aesthetics. Proper skirting can significantly improve a double wide home’s overall appearance and functionality.
Understanding Skirting for Mobile Homes
Mobile home skirting, also known as underpinning, is a crucial component for manufactured homes. It serves multiple purposes beyond aesthetics, providing protection and functionality.
Skirting encloses the space beneath a mobile home, shielding the understructure from weather elements and pests. It helps maintain a more stable temperature inside the home by reducing heat loss and preventing cold air infiltration.
Various skirting options are available for mobile homes:
- Vinyl: Affordable and low-maintenance
- Metal: Durable and fire-resistant
- Brick or stone: Offers a traditional look
- Wood: Customizable but requires regular upkeep
Installation typically involves attaching a ground track around the home’s perimeter and securing skirting panels to it. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup underneath the home.
Skirting contributes to energy efficiency by creating an insulating barrier. It also provides a finished appearance, enhancing the mobile home’s curb appeal and potentially increasing its value.
When selecting skirting, homeowners should consider factors such as climate, local regulations, and budget. Professional installation ensures proper fit and functionality, though some experienced DIY enthusiasts may tackle the project themselves.
Selecting Skirting Materials
Skirting materials for double wide homes come in a variety of options, each with unique properties and aesthetic appeal. The choice of material impacts durability, insulation, and overall appearance.
Vinyl Skirting
Vinyl skirting is a popular and cost-effective option for double wide homes. It resists moisture, mold, and mildew, making it suitable for various climates. Vinyl skirting comes in panels or planks that interlock for easy installation.
This material offers a wide range of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to match their home’s exterior. Some vinyl skirting products mimic the appearance of brick or stone for a more upscale look.
Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring occasional cleaning with soap and water. Vinyl skirting’s lightweight nature makes it easy to handle during installation.
Metal Skirting
Metal skirting provides excellent durability and a sleek, modern appearance. Aluminum and galvanized steel are common choices, offering resistance to rust and corrosion.
These materials withstand harsh weather conditions and are not susceptible to pest damage. Metal skirting often features a baked-on enamel finish, available in various colors to complement the home’s exterior.
Installation involves attaching panels to a frame, creating a solid barrier. Metal skirting offers superior ventilation options, with pre-cut or easily customizable vent openings.
Concrete Skirting
Concrete skirting offers unparalleled durability and a permanent solution for double wide homes. It provides excellent insulation and protection against pests and severe weather.
Installation methods include poured concrete or precast panels. Poured concrete allows for customization but requires professional installation. Precast panels offer quicker installation and uniform appearance.
Concrete skirting can be painted or textured to match the home’s exterior. While initially more expensive, its longevity and low maintenance needs make it cost-effective over time.
Foam Skirting
Foam skirting is a lightweight, insulating option for double wide homes. It’s typically made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane foam, offering excellent thermal properties.
This material is easy to cut and shape, allowing for custom fit around utilities and uneven terrain. Foam skirting often comes with a protective coating or facing to enhance durability and aesthetics.
Installation is straightforward, with panels that can be glued or mechanically fastened to a frame. Foam skirting provides a seamless look and can be painted to match the home’s exterior.
Wood Skirting
Wood skirting offers a natural, traditional appearance for double wide homes. Common wood types include pressure-treated pine, cedar, and composite materials.
This option allows for customization in terms of design and finish. Wood can be stained or painted to match or complement the home’s exterior.
Installation involves attaching wood panels or boards to a frame. Proper treatment and maintenance are crucial to prevent rot, insect damage, and warping.
Brick Skirting
Brick skirting provides a classic, high-end look for double wide homes. It offers excellent durability and insulation properties.
Installation requires a solid foundation and skilled masonry work. Brick skirting can be matched to existing brick on the property or chosen to create a complementary accent.
While more expensive initially, brick skirting is long-lasting and requires minimal maintenance. It adds significant value to the home’s appearance and structural integrity.
Stone Skirting
Stone skirting creates a luxurious, natural appearance for double wide homes. Options include natural stone veneer or manufactured stone products.
This material offers excellent durability and weather resistance. Stone skirting provides superior insulation and can enhance the home’s energy efficiency.
Installation requires a sturdy foundation and may involve specialized techniques. While labor-intensive, the result is a unique, high-end finish that significantly boosts curb appeal.
Installation Essentials
Proper installation of double wide skirting is crucial for longevity and effectiveness. Careful preparation, the right tools, and following a systematic process ensure a successful outcome.
Preparing for Installation
Measure the perimeter of the double wide mobile home accurately. Add the lengths of all sides together to determine the total skirting needed. Clean the area around the home’s base, removing debris and vegetation. Level the ground if necessary, creating a smooth surface for installation.
Install a treated lumber ground track around the perimeter. This provides a solid foundation for attaching the skirting panels. Ensure the track is level and securely anchored to the ground.
Mark locations for ventilation and access points. Adequate ventilation prevents moisture buildup, while access doors allow for maintenance of utilities beneath the home.
The Installation Process
Begin by attaching a J-channel to the bottom edge of the mobile home. This creates a secure connection point for the top of the skirting panels. Use screws appropriate for the home’s exterior material.
Install corner posts at each corner of the home. These provide structural support and a finished look.
Starting at a corner, attach skirting panels to the ground track and J-channel. Ensure each panel overlaps correctly for a weathertight seal. Use recommended fasteners and follow manufacturer guidelines for spacing.
Cut panels as needed to fit around obstacles or create ventilation openings. Install pre-made vents in these openings to maintain proper airflow.
Add access doors in predetermined locations. Secure them properly to prevent unwanted entry while allowing easy access for maintenance.
Tools and Equipment
Essential tools for skirting installation include:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Power drill
- Circular saw
- Tin snips
- Hammer
- Utility knife
Specialized equipment may include:
- Skirting brake (for bending panels)
- Crimping tool
- Rivet gun
Safety gear is crucial. Wear work gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear. Use knee pads for comfort during ground-level work.
Keep a caulking gun and weatherproof sealant on hand to seal joints and prevent moisture intrusion. A wheelbarrow proves useful for transporting materials around the work site.
Improving Energy Efficiency
Double wide skirting can significantly enhance a manufactured home’s energy efficiency. Proper skirting installation and material selection help regulate temperature and reduce utility costs.
Insulation Integration
Insulated vinyl skirting provides an extra layer of protection against heat loss. This material creates a barrier between the ground and the home’s underside, maintaining a more stable temperature.
Foam board insulation can be added behind standard vinyl skirting for improved thermal resistance. This technique helps retain heat in winter and keeps the home cooler in summer.
Some skirting options come pre-insulated, offering a convenient all-in-one solution. These products typically feature a foam core sandwiched between vinyl layers.
Energy-Saving Techniques
Installing vents in the skirting allows for proper airflow, preventing moisture buildup and improving overall energy efficiency. Adjustable vents can be opened in summer and closed in winter to optimize temperature control.
Sealing gaps and cracks in the skirting prevents drafts and air leaks. This simple step can lead to noticeable improvements in heating and cooling system performance.
Reflective skirting materials can deflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption in warm climates. This helps maintain a cooler interior temperature and reduces the load on air conditioning systems.
Regular maintenance of skirting ensures its continued effectiveness in energy conservation. Inspect for damage and replace worn sections promptly to maintain optimal performance.
Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal
Double wide skirting offers numerous opportunities to elevate your home’s visual appeal. From customization options to complementing your exterior design, the right skirting can transform the look of your manufactured home.
Customization and Styles
Double wide skirting comes in a variety of materials and styles to suit different tastes and architectural designs. Vinyl skirting offers a clean, modern look and comes in multiple colors to match or contrast with your home’s exterior. For a more natural appearance, faux stone or brick panels can add texture and depth. Wood skirting provides a classic, rustic charm and can be painted or stained to your preference.
Some manufacturers offer stamped metal skirting with intricate patterns, adding a unique decorative element. Lattice skirting allows for better airflow while creating an attractive, open design. For a high-end look, custom-made concrete skirting can be molded to mimic various textures and finishes.
Complementing Your Home’s Exterior
Choosing skirting that complements your home’s exterior is crucial for creating a cohesive look. Consider the color palette of your home when selecting skirting materials. Neutral tones like beige, gray, or white often work well with a variety of exterior colors. For homes with bold siding, matching the skirting color can create a seamless appearance.
Landscaping can further enhance the aesthetic appeal of your skirting. Plant shrubs or flowers around the perimeter to soften the transition between the skirting and the ground. Use decorative rocks or mulch to create a tidy border. Ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage to the skirting and foundation.
Lighting can also play a role in highlighting your skirting. Install low-voltage landscape lighting to illuminate the skirting at night, adding depth and dimension to your home’s exterior.
Maintaining Skirting Integrity
Proper upkeep of double wide skirting ensures its longevity and effectiveness. Regular checks and targeted maintenance practices protect against weather damage and pest intrusion while preserving the skirting’s structural integrity.
Routine Checks and Maintenance
Inspect skirting quarterly for signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, gaps, or loose panels that could compromise its function. Clean the skirting surface with mild soap and water, avoiding excessive moisture.
Remove debris and vegetation from around the skirting base to prevent moisture buildup and potential pest entry points. Check ventilation openings to ensure they remain unobstructed.
Reattach loose panels promptly using appropriate fasteners. Seal small cracks or gaps with caulk or foam sealant to maintain a tight barrier against pests and drafts.
Durability and Longevity Measures
Choose weather-resistant materials like vinyl or metal for enhanced durability. Apply a protective coating to wood skirting every 2-3 years to guard against moisture and UV damage.
Ensure proper drainage around the skirting perimeter to prevent water accumulation. Install a moisture barrier beneath the home to reduce humidity and potential skirting damage.
Reinforce skirting in high-wind areas with additional supports or tie-downs. Use pest-resistant materials or treatments to deter insects and rodents from compromising the skirting’s integrity.
Replace damaged sections promptly to prevent further deterioration. Consider professional inspections every few years to identify and address potential issues early.
Considering Costs and Affordability
Skirting costs for double-wide mobile homes vary based on materials and installation methods. Understanding price ranges and budgeting for both initial setup and ongoing maintenance is crucial for homeowners.
Assessing Skirting Prices
Vinyl skirting is the most budget-friendly option, ranging from $400 to $1,300 for a double-wide mobile home. This material offers a basic look and easy installation. Faux stone or brick skirting provides a high-end appearance but comes at a higher price point, typically between $920 and $1,980 for double-wides.
Insulated vinyl skirting falls in the middle range, costing $1,400 to $5,000. It offers improved energy efficiency compared to standard vinyl. Metal skirting prices vary widely depending on the specific type chosen.
A mobile home skirting calculator can help estimate costs based on home dimensions and material selection.
Budgeting for Installation and Maintenance
Labor costs for skirting installation can significantly impact the total price. Professional installation typically adds $300 to $800 to the material costs. DIY installation can save money but requires time and skill.
Maintenance expenses vary by material. Vinyl may need occasional cleaning and replacement of damaged panels. Stone or brick-look skirting generally requires less upkeep but can be more costly to repair if damaged.
Setting aside funds for future repairs or replacements is wise. Harsh weather conditions or accidental damage may necessitate unexpected maintenance.
Cost-effective choices balance initial investment with long-term durability and maintenance needs. Comparing quotes from multiple suppliers and installers can help find the best value for your budget.
Ventilation and Moisture Control
Proper ventilation and moisture control are crucial for maintaining the integrity of double wide skirting. These factors prevent damage and extend the lifespan of the skirting material.
Implementing Proper Ventilation
Adequate airflow is essential for double wide skirting. Install vents at regular intervals around the perimeter, typically one vent per 150 square feet of floor space. Ensure vents are evenly distributed on all sides to promote cross-ventilation.
Use durable, corrosion-resistant vents designed for mobile homes. These can cost between $5 and $25 each, depending on quality and features. Consider automatic vents that open and close based on temperature and humidity levels.
Keep vents clear of debris and vegetation to maintain airflow. Regularly inspect and clean vents to prevent blockages. In areas with high snowfall, install vents higher on the skirting to prevent snow accumulation from blocking them.
Preventing Moisture Buildup
Moisture control is vital for preserving skirting materials and preventing mold growth. Install a vapor barrier on the ground beneath the home to reduce moisture rising from the soil.
Use moisture-resistant materials for skirting, such as vinyl or fiber cement. These options are less prone to water damage compared to wood. If using wood skirting, opt for pressure-treated lumber or cedar for better moisture resistance.
Ensure proper drainage around the home’s perimeter. Grade the soil away from the skirting to prevent water pooling. Install gutters and downspouts to direct rainwater away from the foundation area.
Consider using dehumidifiers in particularly damp climates. These can help remove excess moisture from the air beneath the home, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.